4.4
(
332
)
Rudy’s Mexican Restaurant Presidio delivers fresh, flavorful cafeteria-style Mexican classics including brisket, ribs, and generous portions in a laid-back environment. Diners enjoy quick service, indoor picnic seating, and a vibrant salsa bar with vegetarian and vegan options.
What to Expect:
🌯 Classic Mexican dishes served cafeteria-style
🍖 Notable brisket and ribs
🌶️ Extensive salsa bar and vegan choices
🚪 Indoor picnic tables and casual vibe
Important Information:
Reservations: None, walk-ins only
Parking: Free lot but may be difficult to find spaces
Payment: Credit, debit, NFC mobile payments accepted
Service: Fast counter service with food delivered to table
Best for a casual meal any time of day, especially breakfast through dinner with solo diners and groups welcome.
Haley's Pick 🍽️
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place she’s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, it’s worth the hype.
Haley's Review of Riot BBQ
Riot BBQ on South Delaware feels like a backyard cookout run by a Top Chef, because it is. Chef Manny Barella and pitmaster Patrick Klaiber have teamed up to blend Monterrey flavors with Texas-style smoke, and the results are seriously craveable.
The brisket steals the show: tender, deeply smoky, and finished with Barella’s bold spice rub. Get it solo or wrapped in buttery Raquelita tortillas. The pulled pork brings heat with ancho, guajillo, and morita chiles, and the al pastor ribs are sticky, sweet, and slightly charred in all the right ways.
Even the sides are insanely good! Think crunchy pepita-macha slaw and banana pudding served in a jar that tastes just like childhood (but better). Every bite feels intentional.
It’s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment worth lining up for.
– Haley @milehighandhungry
📍 Local Insights
🌯 Early Breakfast Favorite: Arrive before 11:30 AM to enjoy breakfast dishes like chicken enchiladas and the popular breakfast burritos.
🌶️ Salsa Bar Must-Try: The salsa bar is highly praised, offering a range of fresh, bold salsas that complement any dish.
🚗 Parking Prep: Though free parking is available, spots can be scarce during peak hours; plan to arrive early or consider nearby paid options.
🌿 Vegan & Vegetarian Friendly: The restaurant offers a good selection of vegetarian and vegan choices, recommended by many visitors for diverse diets.
⏰ Hours
Monday: 8:00 AM–8:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM–9:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM–8:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM–8:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM–9:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM–9:00 PM
Sunday: 8:00 AM–8:00 PM
👉 Best For
Casual meals, families, solo diners, vegetarian options
Rudy’s Mexican Restaurant Presidio
138 E Canon Perdido St
,
Santa Barbara
,
CA
93101
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Rudy’s Mexican Restaurant Presidio is celebrated for its authentic, flavorful Mexican food, especially the brisket, ribs, and taquitos, paired with a popular salsa bar and friendly staff. The casual setting with fast, counter-service style dining is a hit among locals and visitors. Some reviews note occasional issues with service and parking difficulty, but food quality and portion sizes consistently impress.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
From The preserve
Standout Dishes
Go For
The Selection
Accommodations
Course Stats
Angler’s Offerings
What You'll Find
Brisket, Ribs, Tacos, Beef Taquitos, Enchiladas, Carnitas, Chips, Salsa Bar, Horchata, Vegan Options, Rice and Beans, Breakfast Burritos
📆 Best Times to Visit
Visit early mornings for breakfast specials, or weekdays before 2 PM to avoid peak lunch crowds; salsa bar best enjoyed mid-day.
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, and seating ensure ease of access for all guests.
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